My Friday Review: Rising

Summary from Goodreads:Having waited a millennium to return to the fertile feeding ground of earth, the dark giants break through a portal and storm out into the world in the guise of a massive hurricane—famished and fierce. Across the ocean, seventeen-year-old Gabriel Goddard is being plagued by terrifying nightmares about creatures that singe and burn the flesh then absorb the life energy of humans and devour the ashes. A chance meeting with Clara Dunaway immediately distracts Gabe from bad dreams. He has always had a sort of sixth sense—to feel the emotions of others around him. Clara’s presence numbs his other sense, nearly knocking him into a hypnotic state. Bewildered and fascinated, he is lured in by her. When Clara finally confesses that she has a similar gift to see auras around people, a spark flames between them, ignited by a paranormal force. Fate soon reveals that there is a higher purpose for their attraction. Along with Jeremy, the head-bangin’ metal head; Ben, the air-headed golden boy; Melanie, the kind- hearted Creole; and the old hermit named Homer, they must face this enemy as one. Discovering that they are descended from an ancient clan of Norse warriors, they awaken their dormant powers, preparing for the dark giants' imminent invasion of their home. A shadow of darkness veils the land. Will the Setti rise to fulfill their long-awaited destiny?

The Review: I LOVED this story. What more could you ask for than young characters, new powers, and an apocalypse on the horizon? I have a special place in my heart for Norse mythology and Stephanie's twist on it had me hooked instantly. Gabe is a great character and it was nice to read a POV of a teenage boy who seems to be emerging as a leader. I thought the developing relationship between Gabe and Clara worked and felt natural. I was happy (in an author way) to see the Stephaine did what needed to be done in terms of death and destruction to suck me in even more. This is not your typical story and I can't wait to see where it is going!

The Good: Something different. Simple, I know, but I liked the concept and can't wait to continue the journey.

The Issue: Nothing really, I was thoroughly captured by Rising and immediately started Resistance.

The Rating: 5 conch. A different, interesting, and fun story everyone will enjoy.